If you’re staying in the Intercontinental in Tokyo and you want a cheap and easy place for a quick dinner, head to Tonkatsu Wako in the shopping complex (Ark Hills) next door to the hotel (if you need directions, the concierge will be more than happy to help).

The restaurant serves pork cutlets that somehow remain moist inside whilst taking on a superb crispy crunch on the outside. The restaurant uses traditional techniques to prepare the pork in this way, and it all comes served with crispy cabbage (as much as you like) and a special sauce.

The deep fried coating on the cutlets isn’t ‘deep fried’ as we know it in England; there’s absolutely no grease to the outer coating. Instead, it’s all about the satisfying crispy crunch.

This is a really good dining option if you’re easing yourself into Japanese food and want something accessible, especially if you have children who are slightly wary of the ‘stranger’ local dishes.

In peak tourist season in Tokyo, expect long queues, especially at lunchtime, but when we dined here in late February, we were seated straightaway by the friendly staff. The waitresses didn’t speak English when we visited, but you’ll be able to get by easily with a little pointing.

A meal for two – with a hungry little one helping out with the generous portion sizes! – won’t set you back more than the equivalent of £15.

Where is it: 1-12-32 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Ark Mori Bldg 3F

When is it open: Mon -Fri 11:15-21:30; Sat – Sun 11:30-21:00